Bimba, an industry-leading innovator of pneumatic, hydraulic and electric motion solutions, has introduced IntelliAxis™ multi-axis electric Linear Robot actuators for either X-Z or X-Y motion applications. Employing a one-of-a-kind two-axis system, the unit features a single continuous belt that serpentines around the two axes eliminating the need for a motor in the Z- or Y-axis while driving a pair of coordinated motors in the X-axis. These configurations, known as T-bot and H-bot within the industry, permit synchronized control for complex motion movement profiles such as circles, ellipses and sine waves.

IntelliAxis™ is intended for medium and heavy-duty two-axis industrial applications that require flexible motion within a two-dimensional plane. An optimal solution for applications that require X-Y or X-Z distance, high-speed motion with a robust load and moment loading capacity, IntelliAxis™ is ideally configured for pick & place, sorting, loading, assembly and other material handling tasks in industries such as packaging, food and beverage and automotive.

The complete system provides distinct advantages over traditional linear actuator-based systems. The durable pair of motors for the X-axis offer high thrust and high speeds, while the single belt system means less overall Z-axis load and reduced X-axis motor size. IntelliAxis™ Product Manager Ed Long says, “With these new actuators, users will realize significant cost savings. The thrust and torque of both X-axis motors converge to provide twice the thrust of a single motor in the Z-axis while the absence of a motor in the Z-axis eliminates the need for cable tracks and expensive, flexible cable.” Furthermore, says Long, “a 3-axis gantry can be created simply with the addition of a single axis actuator for applications requiring 3-dimensional motion.”

The patented ARC Power Self-Tracking timing belt itself is steel-reinforced and provides motion in both axes. It is constructed to reduce noise and vibration, eliminate backlash and cogging and deliver higher thrust per unit size. “Ideal for high-speed applications, it is the most innovative and efficient timing belt in the world,” says Long.